New APS-ACS Test Program for Liquid Helium Purchasing

Background on the Liquid Helium Purchasing Program

Academic researchers across the physical sciences and engineering disciplines depend on liquid helium to perform experiments and maintain critical instruments. However, reliable and affordable liquid helium procurement remains a principle challenge for the academic community. Although there are potentially thousands of academics purchasing liquid helium, individual users have little purchasing power and often face dramatic price fluctuations and have concerns regarding reliable delivery – especially during a shortage.

In an effort to provide academic users increased reliability and affordability when purchasing liquid helium, APS and the American Chemical Society (ACS) are working with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to create a pilot program aimed at improving liquid helium purchasing for academics.

APS aims to assemble and administer a trial group of 10-15 academic research groups, diverse in both location and helium needs, who would enter into one year contracts with DLA, allowing them to negotiate price and purchase liquid helium on their behalf. Once the benefits and limits of the program are understood, APS will evaluate whether and how to expand it to serve more academic users.